Communicating Clearly with Your Doctor

Your right to be informed

Every patient has the right to “informed consent.” This means before you make important medical treatment decisions, your doctor for other healthcare provider should clearly explain:

• Your medical condition or diagnosis
• The expected outlook for your condition
• Recommended and other treatment options
• Potential risks and benefits of each option.

Clear communication benefits everyone involved. You need to understand your situation and treatment options to make the best decisions for your health. Your healthcare team will serve you best when you are clear in sharing your values, questions, and decisions.

Before your appointment: a checklist

Meet Janice, a 75-year-old retired teacher who discovered that preparation makes all the difference. “I used to feel overwhelmed during appointments,” she says. “Now I write everything down beforehand, and it’s like night and day.”

Here’s how to prepare:

• Check that hearing aids are working properly
• Request a translator in advance if needed
• Write down your questions and concerns
• Bring an updated list of medications
• Bring a copy of any new advance directives
• Consider bringing a trusted family member or friend as a second set of ears

Making the most of your visit

Medical discussions can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with complex conditions or uncertain outcomes. Remember: you’re at the center of your care, and your questions matter. Here are three keys to success:

Be alert: Focus on listening and understanding. Take notes if it helps.

Take your time: Don’t feel pressured to make immediate decisions unless absolutely necessary. It’s okay to think things over.

Speak up: If something isn’t clear, ask for more information or further explanation. Hearing words is one thing; but it’s your understanding that’s essential for good care.

Making virtual appointments work for you

With telehealth becoming more common, it’s important to know how to make the most of virtual visits. Here are some tips for a successful online appointment.

Before the visit:

• Test your device and internet connection
• Confirm you have the right apps or software and log-in information
• Use a space that’s quiet, well-lit, and private
• If there’s a backup phone number for the appointment, have that available
• If you might need to share information from any devices (blood pressure monitor, glucose meter, etc.), have that ready.
• Have your current medication bottles nearby to show labels if needed
• Make a list of any questions or topics you’d like to cover.

During the visit:

• Position your camera at eye level so your doctor can see you clearly
• Speak clearly, and say something if you are having trouble hearing or understanding anything
• Consider having a family member join on the call if you are concerned about the technology or for help taking notes.
• Virtual visits work best for follow-up appointments, medication reviews, and discussing test results. For new or serious symptoms, your doctor may still want to see you in person.

The power of partnership

Clear communication transforms your healthcare experience from a one-way conversation into a true partnership. When you actively participate in discussions about your health, you’re more likely to:

• Understand your condition better
• Feel confident about your treatment decisions
• Get the specific care you need
• Have better health outcomes.

Good healthcare communication isn’t just about talking–it’s about creating a partnership where both you and your medical team work together toward your best possible care.